Abstract

Better Beginnings is an early intervention family literacy program that has been developed by the Public Library Services Directorate, at the State Library of Western Australia. Its stated purpose is to provide positive language and literacy influences for children in their first three years of life. The program is thought to be the first of its kind in Australia and has recently been taken up by another Australian Territory State. A fully evaluated pilot of Better Beginnings commenced in January 2004 in Gosnells, Mandurah, Midland, Carnarvon, Halls Creek and Kalgoorlie and in September was extended to include Armadale, Rockingham, Bayswater, East Pilbara and Ashburton. The program will be expanded state-wide during the next four years to a range of communities that represent diverse geographical, social, cultural and economic contexts. The State Government's continued financial commitment along with that of Local Government and funding from the Rio Tinto WA Future Fund will enable Better Beginnings to be rolled-out to communities across Western Australia commencing in 2005/06.